From Rashidat Suleiman,Minna
The Federal Ministry of Water Resources and Sanitation, in collaboration with CISEC Engineering Limited, has organized a Validation Workshop on Improved Water Supply and Sanitation for Niger State. The workshop, held at Princess AZ-Zahra Lodge in Minna, focused on strengthening water and sanitation services through sector review, data validation, and the development of a sustainable investment plan.
Speaking at the event, the Niger State Commissioner for Water Resources and Irrigation Services, Engineer Farouk Umaru Audi, described the workshop as timely and strategic. He noted that the African Development Bank (AfDB) grant to the Federal Ministry reflects growing international confidence in Nigeria’s reform agenda and the capacity of states such as Niger to deliver impactful results in the water and sanitation sector.
The commissioner explained that Niger State is a direct beneficiary of the AfDB-supported initiative, adding that major urban water schemes in Minna, Suleja, Bida, Kontagora, and New Bussa are expected to benefit significantly. According to him, the intervention will enhance access to safe, reliable, and sustainable water supply and sanitation services across the state.
Represented by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Akilu Musa Kuta, Audi commended CISEC Engineering Limited for supporting the state in conducting a comprehensive sector review. He said the firm’s engagement includes data collection and analysis, as well as the development of an Urban Water Supply and Sanitation Master and Investment Plan.
He further observed that effective planning in the water sector has long been hampered by inadequate data, fragmented investments, and reactive infrastructure development. He stressed that the validation workshop provides a platform to address these gaps and establish a coordinated, evidence-based planning framework.
Earlier in his opening remarks, the National Coordinator from the Federal Ministry of Water Resources and Sanitation, Engineer Kasim Nafiu, described the Niger State Water Plan Review as a critical initiative aimed at producing a practical and implementable master plan for water supply and sanitation in the state and across the country.
Also speaking, the Team Lead of CISEC Engineering Limited, Engineer Hassan Kida, said the master plan would play a vital role in addressing Niger State’s water and sanitation challenges while supporting overall socio-economic development.
In a goodwill message, the Managing Director of NISWASEC, Engineer Gimba Yisa, emphasized that the success of the workshop is crucial to attracting investor support. He added that Farmer Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago has consistently underscored the need for comprehensive water demand reviews to ensure projects deliver maximum benefits to all citizens.
Highlights of the workshop included technical paper presentations, data updates and validation exercises, as well as interactive question and-answer sessions.